City commission as host of candidate forum



May a City advisory commission host an open forum for judicial candidates?  

No. Members of advisory boards and commissions are prohibited from engaging in political  activity while using their City title, City resources, or the authority of their City position. An event at which candidates will promote their campaigns is political activity. As such, a City officer could not participate in such an event in their official capacity and could not use City resources to promote or organize the event.

These advice tidbits are for reference only. They are not intended as legally protective guidance or binding interpretation of laws within the Board's jurisdiction. You can request individualized informal advice by contacting BOEGCStaff@phila.gov or clicking the Ask for Advice button on the Board's website.